Dorothy Ann Sams-Taylor, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and faithful servant of God, and friend to many, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. She was born on December 6, 1944, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Artie and Mamie (Bell) Sams.
Dorothy was a woman of strong faith who loved the Lord and was a devoted member of Latter Rain Church of God in Christ. Her life reflected her faith through her kindness, generosity, compassion, and willingness to serve others.
Dorothy had a heart for her community, especially for children. In her earlier years, she founded a local organization called “People Who Care For Our Children” and participated in March of Dimes walks. She loved working with children, mentoring others, and offering encouragement and support to those around her. Her caring spirit touched many lives, and she was always willing to lend a helping hand.
A hardworking and dedicated woman, Dorothy worked in housekeeping at various local hotels and also enjoyed working as a school custodian. She took pride in her work and demonstrated dedication in all that she did. In her leisure time, she enjoyed taking long walks and appreciating life's simple blessings.
Above all, Dorothy loved her family and cherished her children and grandchildren. They were a special source of joy in her life, and her love, wisdom, and encouragement will remain with them always.
Dorothy will be remembered as a generous, kindhearted woman whose faith guided her life and whose love extended to her family, church, and community. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of faith, service, and compassion will live on through all those whose lives she touched.
“Her life was a testimony of faith, her heart a reflection of love, and her legacy a blessing to all who knew her.”
Dorothy leaves behind her children, Jerome Taylor, Bernadette Taylor, and Kimberly (James) Diehl; 11 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; her siblings, Eddie (Kilcha) Bell and Alecia (Keith) Stokes; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Isaac Taylor; her siblings, Willie F. Collins, Artie Sams Sr., James Bell, Ardie Mae Sams and Charles (Edna) Collins; and her son-on-law, Derrick Eades.
Family and friends may visit from 9:00-10:00 am on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Latter Rain Church of God in Christ, 2727 Lexington Ave. Going Home services will follow at 10:00 am. Dorothy will be laid to rest in Mansfield Cemetery.
Wappner Funeral Directors-Mansfield are honored to serve the family of Dorothy Ann Sams-Taylor.
